“I have received correspondence from hundreds of constituents who have been moved to write to me and have urged the government to do more.

“Many people also want to be able to help in more practical ways and some have even offered their homes as safe shelter for those fleeing the civil war in Syria.

“Others have written to me with compassion for the refugees but feel that the UK cannot be responsible for these problems and is limited by size to take more migration.”

Mr Merriman encouraged others to contact him.

“I have found that local people care deeply about the plight of others and I have been impressed by how many give up their time to support those in need,” he said.

“If any local residents are planning collections or fund-raising activities to help the refugees and would like my support then I would be really pleased to hear from them and I will do my best to get involved.”

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